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Natural Ways to Fight Diabetes

Diabetes is a health condition that occurs when the body stops processing insulin correctly or efficiently. Insulin is a hormone created by the body that changes starch and sugar into energy so the body can function. The disease affects more than 23 million Americans, and it is thought that nearly six million others have diabetes and don't know it.

  1. Diabetes Variants and Symptoms

    • There are different kinds of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational. Type 1 diabetes involves the body's failure to create insulin and typically is evident early in life. The type 2 variety involves resistance to insulin and more often affects adults. Gestational diabetes is a condition that occurs in some pregnant women.
      Diabetes symptoms vary depending upon the individual but typically include being thirsty, constant hunger, sudden weight loss, mood swings, vision problems and the need to urinate often. Diabetes also makes it difficult for wounds to heal.

    Dietary Changes and Exercise

    • Diabetics must change their dietary habits to treat the condition. It is beneficial to focus on losing weight, ingesting less sugar and eating an overall healthy, balanced diet, including 45 to 65 percent carbohydrates, 25 to 35 percent fats, and 12 to 20 percent proteins.
      Regular exercise is also recommended, though diabetics should always consult a doctor before starting a new routine.

    Asian Ginseng

    • Asian ginseng is an herb that helps the immune system and naturally increases the body's production of insulin by stimulating the pancreas. It has also been found to intensify the number of existing receptors for insulin in the body and naturally minimize blood sugar levels.
      Take one 500-milligram capsule two times a day with a meal.

    Bilberry

    • Bilberry is similar to blueberry and is used to treat eye conditions associated with diabetes and improve the circulatory system. Take one 1,000-milligram capsule twice a day with a meal.

    Cinnamon

    • Cinnamon, which can be added to toast, hot beverages and applesauce, can make one's fat cells more responsive to insulin, as well as speed up the natural conversion of glucose in the body so it can be used as natural energy. It can be taken as a single 1000 milligram capsule each day as a natural remedy for diabetes.

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